The Catalina Capri 22 is a beloved classic, known for its exceptional sailing performance, robust build, and surprisingly spacious interior. If you're searching for a "Catalina Capri 22 for sale," this guide will help you navigate the market, understand what to look for, and ultimately find the perfect boat for your needs.
What Makes a Catalina Capri 22 So Popular?
The Catalina Capri 22's enduring popularity stems from a winning combination of factors. Its relatively shallow draft makes it ideal for exploring shallow bays and inlets, while its stable hull provides a comfortable ride even in moderate chop. The boat handles well in light to moderate winds, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced sailors. Beyond its sailing characteristics, the Capri 22 boasts surprisingly roomy accommodations for its size, offering comfortable seating and sleeping space for a small crew. Its simplicity of design makes maintenance relatively straightforward, adding to its appeal.
How Much Does a Used Catalina Capri 22 Cost?
The price of a used Catalina Capri 22 varies significantly depending on several factors including the year of manufacture, condition, equipment included, and location. Generally, you can expect to find prices ranging from a few thousand dollars for boats needing significant work to upwards of $15,000 or more for well-maintained examples with upgraded equipment. Thoroughly researching comparable listings in your area will give you a better understanding of current market prices. Remember, a lower price might initially seem attractive, but could mean hidden repair costs down the line.
What to Look for When Buying a Used Catalina Capri 22
Inspecting a used Catalina Capri 22 thoroughly before purchase is crucial. Here's a checklist of key areas to examine:
- Hull Condition: Check for any signs of damage, such as cracks, blisters, or osmosis. Pay close attention to the keel joint and the areas around the hull-to-deck joint.
- Sails and Rigging: Assess the condition of the sails – are they torn, faded, or showing significant wear? Examine the rigging for any corrosion, fraying, or damage.
- Engine (if applicable): If the boat has an outboard motor, check its functionality and overall condition.
- Interior: Inspect the interior for any signs of water damage, mildew, or rot.
- Electronics: Test all navigational equipment, including the depth sounder, GPS, and compass.
- Documentation: Ensure you have all necessary documentation, including the title and any maintenance records.
Where Can I Find Catalina Capri 22s for Sale?
Several avenues exist for finding a Catalina Capri 22 for sale:
- Online Classifieds: Websites such as YachtWorld, sailboatlistings.com, and Craigslist often feature used boats for sale.
- Boat Dealers: Many boat dealerships specialize in used boats and may have Catalina Capri 22s in stock.
- Sailing Forums and Communities: Online sailing communities and forums can be valuable resources for connecting with sellers and getting advice.
What are the common problems with a Catalina Capri 22?
While generally robust, some common issues associated with older Catalina Capri 22s include:
- Gelcoat cracking: This is fairly common on older fiberglass boats and may require repair.
- Sails needing replacement: Over time, sails degrade and will need replacing.
- Engine maintenance: Outboard engines require regular maintenance.
- Aging rigging: The standing and running rigging will eventually need replacement.
Addressing these issues proactively during the inspection process will help you accurately assess the overall cost of ownership.
Are there any Catalina Capri 22 upgrades I should consider?
Many owners choose to upgrade their Catalina Capri 22s with various accessories and modifications. Popular upgrades include:
- New sails: Upgrading to higher-performance sails can significantly enhance sailing performance.
- Improved electronics: Installing modern GPS, chartplotters, and autopilots can improve navigation and safety.
- Engine upgrade: Replacing an older outboard with a newer, more efficient model is a common upgrade.
By carefully considering these factors and conducting thorough research, you'll be well-equipped to find the perfect Catalina Capri 22 for your sailing adventures. Happy sailing!
